The holidays have a way of bringing out our inner overachiever — the part of us that wants to make everything perfect, take care of everyone, and check off every box on the to-do list. But underneath all that hustle, there’s a softer voice that just wants to breathe, create, and be present again.
As a Northern California boudoir and portrait photographer, I see so many women who show up for everyone else all year long — and forget that they deserve care, too. The truth is, slowing down isn’t laziness; it’s self-respect. The quiet moments we give ourselves to rest, to feel beautiful, and to reconnect with our creativity are the ones that fill us back up.
- Maybe for you, that looks like:
- Putting on a cozy holiday outfit that makes you feel radiant, just because.
- Turning off your phone and taking a long walk with your favorite playlist.
- Sitting by candlelight with a cup of cocoa, just being.
- Doing holiday crafts or baking simply for the joy of it — not because you feel like you need to.
- Decorating your space because it makes you smile and lets your creativity shine — not out of obligation.
For me, it’s creating — whether that’s behind the camera or in front of it. When I stop trying to “do it all” and allow myself to simply be, that’s when the magic flows again.
So if the season starts to feel like too much, pause. Let yourself slow down. Let beauty and creativity find you in the quiet.
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